Hip Arthroscopy

FAQs

Renowned Hip Arthroscopy

Post Street Surgery Center is a state-of-the-art surgical center led by Dr. Thomas Sampson, a nationally-renowned and board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip arthroscopy. He’s internationally renowned for having pioneered numerous hip preservation and hip arthroscopy techniques, including the lateral approach, arthroscopic surgery for FAI, the use of extensive capsulotomy for ideal surgery, and repair of the FAACD lesion. He uses cutting-edge technologies to ensure his patients always have access to the best surgical care available.

What is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that treats a vast array of hip problems, including injuries and chronic conditions. It’s an innovative procedure that allows surgeons to view the hip joint and make the necessary adjustments without large incisions on the skin and other soft tissues. Hip arthroscopy addresses the root cause of your hip problems while allowing you to resume your daily activities shortly after the procedure.

The hip arthroscopy surgery involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the hip joint via a small incision. The camera allows the surgeons to visualize the hip bone on a computer screen and make the necessary adjustments using miniature surgical equipment. Since this procedure requires smaller incisions than traditional open surgeries, it involves less pain, joint stiffness, and recovery time.

"Writing this one week out from hip arthroscopy and feeling great. Can’t vouch highly enough for Dr. Sampson. He’s not only a brilliant surgeon, but a thoughtful and considerate person who spends genuine time with his patients. The entire staff are also incredible. It’s the best medical care I’ve ever received."

- Matt C.

When Do You Need Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is recommended for patients with painful hip problems that don’t respond to conservative treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, epidural injections, anti-inflammatory medications, etc. When non-surgical options fail to yield lasting results, your surgeon may recommend hip arthroscopy to address the root cause of your hip problems, providing lasting relief once and for all.

You may need hip arthroscopy to treat the following conditions:

  • Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) (bone overgrowth along the acetabulum)
  • Dysplasia (abnormally shallow hip socket)
  • Snapping Hip Syndrome
  • Synovitis (inflamed tissues around the hip joints)
  • Loose Bodies (loose fragments of bone and cartilage in the hip joint)
  • Hip Joint Infection

Dr. Sampson’s Hip Arthroscopy Approach

Dr. Thomas Sampson performs the hip arthroscopy procedure while you’re lying on your side (lateral decubitus position). Your affected side is attached to a Smith and Nephew Hip Distractor®/Positioner. The hip arthroscopy surgery is performed through two 6mm punctures on the skin that serve as entry points for the arthroscope and instruments.

The surgeon creates a capsulotomy, a small cut through the opening of the hip joint, to insert the arthroscope and visualize the insides of the hip space. This allows the surgeon to diagnose and treat the underlying root cause of your hip problems. The entire procedure is performed with the hip in a relaxed position, with most of the procedure time spent outside the joint space.

When necessary, traction (distraction) is applied at the center of the hip to remove the loose bodies, debris, labral repairs, and micro-fractures. Finally, the capsulotomy is repaired or plicated, and the incisions are closed. The procedure involves minimal traction time, so you can wake up from the anesthesia with little-to-no pain and discomfort.

Scheduling your appointment

Please schedule an appointment at Post Street Surgery Center, San Francisco, to discuss your hip arthroscopy treatment options.

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